Gallium Scan

What is a gallium scan?

A cisternogram is a nuclear medicine test. It uses a small amount of gallium—a radioactive material—and a special camera to produce images that help evaluate the presence and extent of infection, disease, and some tumors. Learn more about gallium scan.

What should I expect at my exam appointment?

At your first visit, a small amount of radioactive isotope will be injected into a vein. You will then be able to leave the department; your second visit will be scheduled for the following day.

At your second visit, you will be asked to remove all external metal objects—jewelry, eyeglasses, etc. The technologist will have you lie on the imaging table and will scan your body from head to knees. This scan takes about 45 minutes.

Because the isotope circulates differently on the following day, you may be scheduled to return to the next day for a repeat set of images.

How will I get my results?

A radiologist will interpret the images, write a report, and deliver the results to your doctor via our internal computer system.

Whom do I call if I need more information?

If you need any other information, call us at 662-772-3128 between the hours of 8 a.m – 5 p.m. Monday - Friday.